How do I do it?

[algypalgy]

Hi all, currently running 2 PCs: 1. Vista Ultimate; 2. WindowsXP SP2. Both have 2GB memory, good Graphics, and first has Pentium Duo, while second has a Pentium 4 chip.

I want some help choosing kit to setup a home network, and how to wire it all up. I don't want to use Wireless!!! Unless forced too.

My idea is to Powerline Network, so reckon I need two Adaptors to plug each PC into the Powerlines. but which is best value and speed? Reckon I'll need a Router to enable multiple use of the internet and emailing, but whats a good buy and compatible with the other specs??

What I can't really get my head round is: How to contect the two PCs to the Router, without running cabling from the ground floor front to the upstairs back bedroom, and without being forced to use Wireless??? Indeed, if I have to cable, I guess I might as well run an Ethernet cable between the two PCs, and be done with it, except it's probably well over a hundred feet.

I would be very grateful for any helpful suggestions.

Kind regards, Algypalgy

[Nox]

sounds like you would need 3 powerline adapters - the cheap ones are slow too btw...

Nox

[algypalgy]

Thanks Nox, not necessarily looking for great spead, but how would you connect it all up??

Kind regards, Algypalgy.

[Nox]

I'm no expert infact only have read a little about them - but you simply just plug them into a power socket and plug your rj45 cable into the device. They have around 200m cable range but the speed slows down the further they are. I believe they also have an access key security so your network and your neighbours won't overlap. They are not good in a business environement though as quite often you will find half of a building on one phase of your supply and the other half on another, if you have a big building...

Nox

[algypalgy]

Again, many thanks Nox, but I really do need to understand how you connect the two computers to the Router, or is it that the Router itself is connected to a powerlines plug? If its a case of having to cable, or wireless connect, via the Router, there doesn't seem to be much point in using the powerlines in the first place!!

Best regards, Algypalgy

[Ben]

From what I have seen of these, they are just media converters. You connect a cable from the router to one end of the power plug. This sends it across your power grid & to the receiving unit. Which in turn has a cable to the computer. I have no idea on their reliability though.

Homeplugs (http://www.homeplugs.co.uk/acatalog/homeplugs.html?gclid=CImW0aaElo8CFQbtlAodZA-WVw)

[algypalgy]

Thanks Ben, that sounds really helpful, but may I just clarify a bit: First I go back to Nok's point about needing 3 Powerline Networking Plugs, which I assume mean, 1 for each PC, and one for the Router, so that the only actual connections from the Router is the Powerline Network Plug and the DSL Modem (unless of coarse I get a combined Router with its own modem, which will need connecting to the phone line), is this correct?

Many thanks again, and kind regards, Algypalgy.

[Nox]

thats how i understand them to work :)

Nox

[algypalgy]

That's great, I really feel as if I have got my head around this networking lark today. With your help and Ben's. I can really see how it all comes together.

Many thanks, reckon thats all I need to no for now.

Best regards, Algypalgy.